Twin Tiers Snow Totals Vary Widely

The National Weather Service says the Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 1 a.m. March 3, prompting the closing of dozens of schools in New York and Pennsylvania.

Forecasters say heavy snow is expected but the total snow accumulations vary widely, ranging from 7 to 12 inches west of interstate 81, with 11 to 17 inches along and east of interstate 81.

The Warning area covers almost all of New York State as well as the Northern Tier of Pennsylvania.

As of between 2 and 4 a.m. March 2 rain had begun changing over to snow. The heaviest snow is expected to occur through the rest of the morning hours. A band of steady to occasionally heavy snow will linger from interstate 81 east into the afternoon hours. The snow gradually tapers off to snow showers in the evening.

Motorists should plan on difficult travel conditions all over New York State. The driving challenges include the morning`s commute. The National Weather Service warns tree branches could fall and there could be scattered power outages. Winds gusting 40 to 50 mph through the evening will also cause areas of blowing and drifting snow.

A complete list of closings, powered by WBNG TV can be found under the Weather category at the top of the WNBF homepage.